Adelle H.

Hello, my name is Adelle, and I am a rising junior at The Overlake School in Redmond Washington. This summer, I participated in session 2 of the Explorers Program, and I am so grateful to have had this incredible opportunity. Throughout the program, I have learned so many lessons that I will carry forward, discovered my own interest in translational research, gained a better understanding of how the research process works, and have been able to learn a lot of amazing scientific techniques that I am excited to apply in the future. Although it's difficult to narrow down, standout experiences for me included Dr. Paul and Dr. Raabya’s joint lecture, learning from Dr. Abizar about liquid biopsy for cancer diagnosis, strengthening my knowledge of common laboratory techniques, and touring the glassware room.

Dr. Paul and Dr. Raabya gave a joint lecture during the second week of the program that left me with several new perspectives on pursuing a career in science. One part of their talk that I found especially interesting was Dr. Raabya’s explanation of ikigai, or a reason for being. As shown in my notebook below, ikigai lies at the intersection of what you are good at, what the world needs, what you can be paid for, and what you love. Following their lecture, I have spent some time thinking about where my ikigai might fall. Ultimately, their message was a reminder to be open to change, value the perspectives of others, believe in myself, and trust the process. These are lessons I will carry with me as I continue exploring my own path in science.

Some of my notes taken during Dr. Paul and Dr. Raabya’s lecture

A second major highlight was Dr. Abizar’s lecture on Liquid biopsy. Early cancer diagnosis can be the difference between successful and unsuccessful treatment, and liquid biopsy is an emerging tool to aid in early diagnosis of cancers. Cancer cells die at a high rate and consequently release DNA into the bloodstream. This cell-free DNA can be sequenced (we actually got to tour the genomics core and see how DNA sequencing works!) for common mutations that result in cancer. Before starting the program, I had never heard of basic science research or translational research, however the combination of fascinating science and amazing clinical application of this technique has sparked my interest in translational research. Throughout the program, getting to see the clinical applications of research has been one of my favorite parts.

In addition, during the two weeks we took part in various labs and lectures to learn about some of the most common laboratory techniques. Overall, learning how techniques can be applied to solve research questions was a highlight for me.  I now feel much more confident using micropipettes, running gel electrophoresis, and doing PCR, and I am very excited to apply these tools in the future.  

  Another highlight was our tour of the glassware lab, Ms. LaToya (pictured on the far right), who gave us a tour, is one of the most kind and bubbly people I have ever met. It was very interesting for me to see a behind the scenes yet critical side of science that often lacks recognition. It’s a great reminder that science relies on a lot more than just what happens at the bench, and moving forward, I won't take for granted the incredible people who keep the labs running smoothly every single day.

The other explorers and I in the glassware room with Ms. Latoya after receiving pipets as a souvenir  

In conclusion, I had a truly amazing experience, and I am so grateful to everyone who made it possible. I had so much fun playing mafia and getting to know the other explorers, and I definitely have made some amazing memories. A big thank you to our TAs Ariana, Kat, and Dustin for answering all my questions and being so kind in the process, Eden for giving me such good advice and helping us explorers get to know each other, SHIP students for sharing their experiences, as well as Dr. G for being so welcoming and encouraging. After completing this program, I can really see myself pursuing a career in science and am excited to see what the future holds.